Defence company Babcock International has formed a new partnership with EV conversion expert Electrogenic to electrify in-service military Land Rovers for the British Army.
The new project will see four Land Rovers, two protected vehicles and two general service vehicles, swap their diesel engines for a drop-in electric conversion kit.
Babcock International has been called-up by the Ministry of Defense to help the British Army explore the defence application and constraints of electric propulsion for service vehicles.
Once converted to electric power, the vehicle will be tested by the Armoured Trials and Development Unit (ATDU) in a series of battlefield and military scenarios to assess its performance over steep terrain. Its wading and towing capabilities will also be assessed.
Commenting on the project, Babcock’s engineering boss, Chris Spicer said: “Sustainability is an integral part of our corporate strategy and by partnering with Electrogenic, we’ll be supporting the MOD to be prepared for the shift to electric vehicles from 2030 and the UK in reaching its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
“This is a great opportunity to investigate alternative engine technology, which will enable the British Army to extend the life of its Land Rovers as diesel becomes obsolete.”
Electrogenic currently offers a drop-in EV kit for the Land Rover Defender. The kit swaps the engine for a 52kWh battery and 90kW motor, offering a range of up to 100 miles and more for off-road use.
“We are delighted to be working with Babcock, and we’re immensely proud to be putting our market-leading EV technology to the ultimate test with the British Army,” said Electrogenic co-founder Steve Drummond.
“At the core of our offering, is the ability to have total control over every element of the electric drivetrain. As a result, our EV technology elevates performance – particularly when in adverse conditions and off-road – to a whole new level. It’s the ideal fit for the military.”
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